Flexo vs Other Printing Methods
The basic process of flexography dates back to the late 19th century. It was not nearly as refined, precise, or versatile as the flexo process today -- and can be best described as a high-tech method of rubber stamping. Get more news about Flexographic Flat Printer,you can vist our website!
Printing capabilities were limited to very basic materials and designs, with other printing methods greatly outshining flexo.
Over the past few decades flexo technology has continuously evolved. This is largely thanks to the integration of Direct Laser Engraving technology, advancements in image carrier materials, and in press technologies. These innovations, among others, have led to increased quality and precision in flexo products.
These technological improvements have positioned flexography at the helm of consumer product and flexible packaging printing. Flexo is growing in popularity in a variety of other industries, too, including medical and pharmaceutical; school, home, and office products; and even publishing.
Flexo typically utilizes an elastomer or polymer image carrier such as sleeves, cylinders, and plates. The image carrier is engraved or imaged to create the design for the final desired product. Ink is transferred from the ink pan via an anilox roll onto the image carrier, where it is then printed onto the substrate.
Flexo printing is most commonly associated with uses in flexible packaging and labels, utilizing a variety of substrates including film, paper, foil and non-woven. Producing these products generally takes 3 steps:
1. ARTWORK
The first step in flexographic printing is designing your artwork. Creating a design that fits the specifications needed to produce the final desired print can be challenging. Failure to thoroughly proof your artwork can result in costly mistakes.
When mounted to a printing cylinder, image carriers created flat stretch and distort your image. You can learn how to calculate and compensate for the distortion -- or opt for In-The-Round, continuous print image carriers that are distortion free.
2. WEB-FED SUBSTRATE MATERIALS
The rolling design of the flexographic printing press allows for continuous substrate materials (in roll-form) to be fed through the machine.
This feature of flexography is what allows for the continuous printing process that can achieve high speeds, maintain accuracy, and efficiently produce large print runs.
